A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Lewisburg vs. Rapid City for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lewisburg or Rapid City?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Lewisburg or Rapid City? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a charming, historical, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the shopping and museums.

Rapid City

Rapid City is a fascinating, activity-filled, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Lewisburg and Rapid City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to Mount Rushmore
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Lewisburg or Rapid City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rapid City. Although Lewisburg and Rapid City are popular destinations, Rapid City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rapid City is very popular for its museums, food, and hiking, while Lewisburg attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Rapid City is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular for its proximity to Mount Rushmore and many other iconic parks. It is also well known for Mount Rushmore. Lewisburg is famous for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Lewisburg different from Rapid City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rapid City and Lewisburg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lewisburg or Rapid City?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Rapid City is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rapid City that are not to be missed. You'll find a wide variety of museums and landmarks nearby. Popular places to visit that aren't far from town include the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs, the South Dakota Air & Space Museum, and the Journey Museum & Learning Center. There's also the Museum of Geology and the National Presidential Wax Museum. And of course, there's the iconic Mount Rushmore.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


Is the Food Better in Lewisburg or Rapid City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Rapid City is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Rapid City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find local restaurants in town that serve local specialties such as chislic (grilled meat), fry bread, and walleye (a local fish.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Lewisburg or Rapid City Better for Nightlife?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Lewisburg and Rapid City.

Lewisburg is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Rapid City doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You'll find some places with live music and good drinks, but the city isn't really known for its nightlife scene.

Is Lewisburg or Rapid City Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Lewisburg is very good for its old town. However, Rapid City does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Lewisburg. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Rapid City does not have a historic old town.


Is Lewisburg or Rapid City Better for Hiking?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Rapid City is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Rapid City. The region is filled with national parks, state parks, and natural areas with wonderful hiking trails. You don't have to travel far to get into nature and experience some of South Dakota's best natural beauty.

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Rapid City?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rapid City and Lewisburg.

Lewisburg is a great destination for shopping. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Rapid City. Rapid City has some interesting local shops as well as larger malls and shopping centers.

Is Lewisburg or Rapid City Better for Families?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Rapid City is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Rapid City is a very family-friendly destination. Nearby national parks and outdoor activities, this is the perfect base for exploring the area with kids. Nearby you'll find the Big Thunder Gold Mine, which has tours and lets you pan for gold, and Custer State Park, which is filled with wildlife. Wall Drug is worth a stopoff, as is Dinosaur Park.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.


Is Lewisburg or Rapid City Better for Couples?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Rapid City is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Rapid City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the amazing national parks in the area and the easy access to iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore. There are many opportunities for wildlife spotting as well as great hiking trails and unique landscapes.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Lewisburg or Rapid City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Rapid City is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Rapid City. Backpackers will appreciate the surrounding natural beauty and the nearby national parks.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Lewisburg or Rapid City Better for Students?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Lewisburg is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Rapid City is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Rapid City is not popular with students.


Is Lewisburg or Rapid City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Lewisburg and Rapid City.

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Rapid City. While there are a few buses, this isn't a realistic option for traveling through the region.

Is Lewisburg or Rapid City a more walkable city?

Lewisburg
Rapid City

Lewisburg is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Rapid City is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

Rapid City is generally not very walkable. While the downtown is walkable, most visitors use the city as a base for exploring the surrounding areas, and this requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Lewisburg Worth Visiting? and Is Rapid City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rapid City or Lewisburg?

How long in Lewisburg or Rapid City?

It's fun to spend time in either Lewisburg or Rapid City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Rapid City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lewisburg, and 2-4 days is enough time in Rapid City.

Families should spend more time in Rapid City than Lewisburg. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Rapid City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Rapid City than Lewisburg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rapid City that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rapid City than Lewisburg if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Rapid City.


  • How many days in Lewisburg or Rapid City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lewisburg 1-2 
    Rapid City 2-4

One day in Lewisburg or Rapid City?

With museums and shopping around the charming town of Lewisburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lewisburg, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Rapid City. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Lewisburg or Rapid City?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Lewisburg, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

You'll find museums and food around the friendly destination of Rapid City. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lewisburg or Rapid City?

Lewisburg, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the friendly city of Rapid City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lewisburg or Rapid City?

Lewisburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rapid City is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Rapid City or Lewisburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lewisburg is $136, while the average daily cost in Rapid City is $116. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lewisburg and Rapid City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lewisburg $70
    Rapid City $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lewisburg $140
    Rapid City $120
Compare Hotels in Lewisburg and Rapid City

Looking for a hotel in Lewisburg or Rapid City? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lewisburg


Hotels in Rapid City


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Rapid City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lewisburg $53
    Rapid City $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Lewisburg or Rapid City?

Prices for flights to both Rapid City and Lewisburg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lewisburg $34
    Rapid City $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rapid City

For Rapid City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Roller Coaster Tickets with Dinner and Show in Rapid City: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lewisburg $18
    Rapid City $26

Tours and Activities in Rapid City

For Rapid City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Mount Rushmore Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Black Hills & Badlands: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tours: $20
  • Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills: $133
  • Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show: $164
  • Badlands Winter Wonderland Adventure: $239
  • Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in South Dakota: $275
  • NEW! Sunrise Tour of the Badlands: $289
  • NEW! Half Day Tour of the Black Hills: $289
  • Badlands Sunset and Wildlife Adventure : $289
  • From Private Spearfish Canyon Tour: $650
  • From Private Devils Tower Tour and Hike: $650
  • Private Black Hills Monuments Full-Day Tour: $650

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lewisburg $12
    Rapid City $6.93


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lewisburg and Rapid City, we can see that Lewisburg is more expensive. And not only is Rapid City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rapid City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rapid City and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lewisburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lewisburg than you might in Rapid City.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lewisburg Expensive? and Is Rapid City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lewisburg or Rapid City?

Rapid City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Lewisburg and Rapid City, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.